superb drawing A superb drawing of a Gentleman of the East India Company, believed to be Captain John Lambe

A superb drawing of a Gentleman of the East India Company, believed to be Captain John Lambe
pencil on paper

Built by Barnard, in 1786, The Ship "Melville Castle" was purchased by the Dutch East India Company and used to convey troops and stores. The captain of the vessel in 1795, the year of the drawing,was Captain John Lambe.

Smart was settled back in London in 1797, having been in India since 1788. It is likely, therefore, that Smart returned to England on the "Melville Castle", and took this drawing during the crossing of his Captain. The ship, arrived in Portsmouth 27 June 1796. Captain John Lambe, died aged 34,whilst in service, 26 February, 1803.

Good

The artist's great grandson, W.H.Bose
His Sale, Christie's, London, 15 February 1937, lot 46, where purchased by Mr. Burton-Jones
Bequeather to his grand-daughter, Gabby Shapland
Gifted by her to Richard Allen in 2001

signed on the obverse and dated J. Smart delint/ 1795 on board the Melville Castle/ East Indiaman ebonised wood frame together with a photocopy of a postcard inscribed "To My Good Friend Richard/ With fondest love and Affection/ from Gabby" and in Richard Allen's own hand "Two Smart/ drawings./ Gift to RBA from Gabby Shapland (nee Burton Jones) June 2001.